1923 - 2012

Bathurst - The family of Paul Melanson, 89, of Golf St., Bathurst, announces his passing on Saturday (January 21, 2012) at the Chaleur Regional Hospital, Bathurst.

Born in Bathurst, he was the son of the late Victor and Dora (Allen) Melanson.

He will be sadly missed by his wife, Hermance (Frenette) Melanson.  His three sons; Bruce (Sandra) of Saint John, Peter (Sharon) of Bathurst and James (Jacquie) of Vancouver, BC.  A half sister, Helen Comeau (Noel) of Nackawic, NB.  Five grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Paul served in World War II with the Fourth Armoured Division of the Royal Canadian Army in Canada and overseas and took part in the Invasion of France in 1944.  He was seriously wounded near Vergen, France.  Paul was a very active member of the Herman J. Good, V.C. Br. 18 of the Royal Canadian Legion, Bathurst.  He chaired many committees including the Colours Party for 20 years and was appointed Sergeant of Arms in 1987 and held the positions for 7 years and was also Parade Marshall for 3 years.  Paul worked for the Provincial Government for 25 years in Highway safety and Law Enforcement.  He retired in 1983 from the New Brunswick Highway Patrol working out of Edmunston Detachment.  Paul was very active in sports, he was inducted into the Bathurst Sport Hall of Fame with the South Bathurst Baseball Team.  He enjoyed fishing, hunting, bowling and was a member of the Gowan Brae Golf and Country Club, which was his number one sport.

At Paul's request, there will be no visitation at the Funeral Home.  Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday (January 25, 2012) at 11 a.m. from the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Bathurst, along with a Royal Canadian Legion Memorial Service.  A reception will follow in the Church basement.  Donations in memory of Paul may be made to a charity of the donors choice.  Arrangements are in the care of Elhatton's Funeral Home (www.elhatton.com), Bathurst.